Introduction:
John Denver’s Perhaps Love, a contemplative ballad released in 1981, is a song that lingers in the memory long after the final note fades. Denver, a folk icon known for his anthemic odes to nature and optimistic spirit, takes a more introspective turn with this duet. While Denver’s signature folksy sound is present, the addition of operatic tenor Plácido Domingo elevates the song to a new level of emotional resonance.
Perhaps Love originated on an album of the same name, a collaborative effort between Denver and Domingo. This unexpected pairing might raise eyebrows at first glance. Denver, a champion of the American West, and Domingo, a titan of the opera world, seemingly belonged to different musical universes. Yet, their contrasting styles create a fascinating tension within the song. Denver’s warm, folksy vocals act as a grounding force, while Domingo’s soaring tenor adds a touch of grandeur and vulnerability.
The song’s success transcended genre. Perhaps Love reached number 22 on the U.S. Adult Contemporary chart and peaked at number 59 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982. This wasn’t typical territory for Denver, whose music often found a home on country music charts as well. Perhaps Love demonstrated Denver’s ability to connect with a broader audience, his message of love’s complexities resonating with listeners across demographics.
Composed by Denver himself, the lyrics of Perhaps Love explore the multifaceted nature of love. The song avoids grand pronouncements, instead offering a series of metaphors that paint love as a refuge, a window to the soul, and a force as powerful and ever-changing as the ocean. Denver doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of love either, acknowledging the possibility of conflict and loss.
Intriguingly, the song’s release coincided with a period of personal turmoil for Denver. He and his wife, Annie Martell, the inspiration for his mega-hit “Annie’s Song,” were separated at the time. While the song doesn’t explicitly reference this personal struggle, it’s difficult not to hear a melancholic undercurrent in the lyrics, particularly in the line, “If I should live forever / And all my dreams come true / My memories of love will be of you.” Whether intentional or not, this adds a layer of poignancy to the song, making it all the more relatable.
Perhaps Love stands as a testament to Denver’s artistic evolution. It showcased his ability to move beyond the sunny optimism of his early work and explore more nuanced themes. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to the universality of its message. Perhaps Love reminds us that love, in all its beautiful complexity, is a cornerstone of the human experience, a force that shapes our lives and leaves an indelible mark on our hearts.